The new service is flown using a Boeing 757 with 180 seats - 24 in United First and 158 in United Economy. United flight 484 departs Denver at 10:15 a.m. and arrives in Washington at 3:32 p.m. From Reagan National, United flight 583 departs at 5:00 p.m., arriving in Denver at 6:53 p.m.

I wonder if there will be weight restrictions in either direction. United's motive for introducing this flight at this particular time is obvious. I hope Frontier can withstand this predatory move by an old dinosaur.

This route was part of the recent release of several DCA routes, Frontier also got some new routes out of this as did several other airlines. DCA is important for UAL's customers as many find DCA more convenient than IAD. Many do choose the highly networked carriers - others like the Frontier and others with a smaller route structure. More info - http://www.usatoday.com/travel/news/2004-04-01-reagan-national_x.htm

Not to mention UA already has a HUGE presence in IAD. They are already the largest carrier in the Washington area. This new flight will further solidify this position. UA has many frequent fliers who are extremely excited UA has this new route. Just one more way to earn miles for trips to Australia, Asia, Europe, South America, and many other places Frontier cannot take you.

If TZ can fly MDW-SJU without weight restrictions (at least I've never heard of weight restrictions on this flight) with a 752, I don't know why UA should have any trouble with DCA-DEN. There will be headwinds, but it's a 600 mile shorter trip and UA's 752s are lower density. (180 seats vs. 200 in TZ's 752s)

"United's motive for introducing this flight at this particular time is obvious."

DEN/DCA was the last thing United wanted. They wanted SFO first and foremost, and as second prize had a backup request for DEN to piss in F9's cornflakes. Now UA is competing on the same route with someone who has a better schedule, lower prices, and a lower CASM--not really part of UA's plan.

Maverick,
explain how F9 has a better schedule? UAL Only has ONE flight, F9 has several. Hopeful UAL will get the SFO flight (didn't know they put in for it)
and maybe add another flight using the a320.